Instrument Pilot Rating

An instrument rating qualifies a pilot to fly in the clouds, and when the weather is not favorable.

The FAA’s Instrument Flying Handbook outlines the Instrument Flight Rules, as “Rules and regulations established by the FAA to govern flight under conditions in which flight by outside visual reference is not safe. IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight depends upon flying by reference to instruments in the flight deck, and navigation is accomplished by reference to electronic signals.” Operating a flight in instrument conditions requires that a pilot must have filed an IFR flight plan. Flight instruments provide the necessary information commonly obtained by simply looking out the window during a VFR flight. Only a certified and current instrument rated pilot is permitted to file and fly an IFR flight plan.

Why should you get an instrument pilot rating?

Without a doubt, an instrument rating will make any pilot better. Instrument flight training develops a more comprehensive understanding of many topics introduced in private pilot training while adding instrument specific knowledge into the mix. Additionally, with an instrument rating, flight opportunities are no longer restricted to only flying on clear weather days. Instrument rated Pilots can file an IFR flight plan enabling flight through clouds and making flights through difficult airspace much easier.

What are the prerequisites?

Eligibility Requirements:

Hold a current private pilot certificate.

Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.

Receive ground training on the Aeronautical Knowledge (listed below) and pass the FAA knowledge test with a score of 70% or greater.

Meet the FAA’s minimum Experience Requirements listed below

Pass a practical test consisting of an oral exam and an in-flight exam with a FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)